How To Get AT&T Transfer PIN and Account Number

Thinking about moving to a new mobile provider but want to keep your current AT&T number?

I recently helped someone through this process, and there’s one important thing you’ll need — something called an AT&T Transfer PIN.

This PIN is what makes it possible to move your number to a new carrier. If you don’t have it, your port request won’t go through. In this post, I’ll walk you through how to get it, how long it stays valid, and a few things to double-check before making the switch.

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What Is an AT&T Transfer PIN?

The AT&T Transfer PIN is a temporary 6-digit code. You need it when switching carriers but keeping your phone number.

AT&T introduced it as a security measure to prevent number theft — things like SIM swap fraud or unauthorized transfers. It’s one of those extra layers that helps protect your account. But if you don’t have this PIN, your new provider won’t be able to complete the transfer.

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How To Get Your AT&T Transfer PIN by Phone

The fastest way is to request it directly from your AT&T phone. Here’s how I did it:

1. Dial *PORT (which is *7678) from your AT&T phone and press the call button.
   
2. Enter your account PIN when asked. This is usually the 4-digit security code you set when creating your AT&T account.
   
3. Press 1 to request your Transfer PIN.
   
4. You’ll get a text from AT&T with the PIN within a few seconds.
   

That’s it. No need to log into the website or deal with customer support.

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How Long Is the Transfer PIN Valid?

The PIN you receive is valid for 4 days. If you don’t use it within that window, it expires, and you’ll have to go through the same steps again to get a new one.

When I tested this out for a friend, we got the PIN, gave it to the new carrier, and the number was moved within a couple of hours — no issues.

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Before You Switch Carriers, Check These Things

Here are a few quick tips to avoid last-minute problems:

• Your AT&T line must be active. If it’s suspended or canceled, you’ll need to reactivate it first.
  
• If you plan to use your current device on the new network, make sure it’s unlocked. AT&T devices are sometimes locked to the network.
  
• Keep both your account number and Transfer PIN handy. Your new carrier will ask for both.
  

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Video Guide:

Final Thoughts 

I know switching carriers can be a bit annoying, especially if you’re trying to avoid extra charges or just want better service. But getting your Transfer PIN is actually one of the easiest steps.

Personally, I prefer calling *PORT over using the AT&T app or website — it’s quick, doesn’t require login, and the PIN comes straight to your messages.

If you found this helpful, feel free to check out more how-to guides I’ve written. I try to keep everything simple and to the point, just like this one.

Thanks for reading.

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